What steps can we take to prioritize worship as Abram did in Genesis 13:3? Living Between Bethel and Ai—Why Worship Comes First Genesis 13:3: “From the Negev, Abram went from place to place until he came to Bethel, to the place between Bethel and Ai where his tent had formerly been.” Abram’s Pattern • Bethel means “House of God”; Ai means “heap of ruins.” • Abram intentionally pitched his tent in sight of both, but built his altar at Bethel (cf. Genesis 12:8; 13:4). • Before decisions about land, livestock, or Lot, he re-centered on worship. Practical Steps to Prioritize Worship 1. Return to Your First Altar • Identify the moment or place where you first met the Lord or sensed His call (Revelation 2:4-5). • Revisit it—physically if possible, spiritually if not—recalling His faithfulness. 2. Schedule Worship, Don’t Squeeze It In • Abram traveled until he reached Bethel; worship set the itinerary, not convenience (Genesis 13:3). • Block non-negotiable time daily (Psalm 5:3) and weekly (Hebrews 10:24-25). 3. Build Before You Pitch • Abram built an altar before settling his tent (Genesis 12:8). • Establish worship routines before making major life arrangements—job, school, even vacations. 4. Public Acknowledgment of the Lord’s Name • “Abram called on the name of the LORD” (Genesis 13:4). • Speak gratitude aloud at meals, in family devotions, and among friends (Psalm 105:1-2). 5. Hold Possessions Lightly, Hold God Tightly • Worship prepared Abram to yield choice land to Lot (Genesis 13:9-11). • Regular giving and open-handed generosity keep the heart uncluttered (Proverbs 3:9; 2 Corinthians 9:7). 6. Stay Between Bethel and Ai • Keep reminders of God’s house in view and ruins of the world in sight—clarity comes from contrast (Romans 12:2). • Use tangible symbols: a worship playlist, open Bible on the table, Scripture on the lock screen. 7. Let Worship Precede Guidance • After worship, God reaffirmed Abram’s promise (Genesis 13:14-17). • Seek Him first, and direction follows (Matthew 6:33; Psalm 37:4-5). The Outcome Prioritizing worship as Abram did cultivates: • Clearer decisions • Peace amid conflict • Renewed promises • A testimony that influences others, as Abram’s life affected Lot and future generations (Genesis 18:19) Worship first, and everything else finds its place—between Bethel and Ai. |
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